Explain why atomic radius decreases across a period

As you go along a period, there is an increasing number of protons in the nucleus of each atom meaning that the nucleus has an increasing positive charge.This means that the electrons are puller closer to the nucleus, decreasing the atomic radius.The electrons added across a period are added to the outer energy level so do not provide any shielding effect which would otherwise increase the atomic radius.

TD
Answered by Tutor406540 D. Chemistry tutor

27316 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What's the difference between covalent and ionic bonding?


Write a balanced half equation for the oxidation of Mn 2+ to MnO4 -


How does a change in temperature affect the Kc value when the forward reaction is exothermic?


Why, in the bromination of phenols, do you not need an acid catalyst like you do in the bromination of benzene?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning